FAQ

Q: Does insurance cover therapy and what insurance plans do you accept?

A: Most insurance carriers cover speech and occupational therapy services. Family Speech & Therapy Services is an in-network provider for all major carriers including:

Blue Cross Blue Shield

HealthPartners

Preferred One

America's PPO

Definity Health

Medical Assistance

Blue Plus

Select Care

Araz

UCare

Patient Choice

Medica

Q: How do I get started?

A: Call Family Speech & Therapy Services at (763) 755-4275 to get started. Please have your insurance card and the name of your physician available when you call.

Q: What does a speech/language evaluation consist of and how long does it take?

A: A speech and language evaluation usually consists of standardized testing, which will compare an individual's skills to the skills of his/her same age peers. The evaluation focuses on five areas of speech-language development: articulation (speech sound production), expressive language (the way an individual uses language), receptive language (the way an individual understands language), voice and fluency, and an oral exam (function of the physical structures used in speech production).

Case history is obtained from patient/parent and school and/or medical documentations is reviewed, as part of the evaluation process.

Evaluations are scheduled for ninety minutes.

Q: What does a occupational therapy evaluation consist of and how long does it take?

A: An occupational therapy evaluation usually consists of standardized testing, which will compare an individual's skills to the skills of his/her same age peers. The evaluation typically focuses on fine motor, gross motor, motor planning (ability to plan and execute muscle movements), visual motor (using hands and eyes together), sensory processing (ability to take in and appropriately respond to touch, movement, sounds, smells, and tastes), and cognitive (attention and organization) abilities. The therapist may also have the caregiver fill out checklist/s to assess the individual’s functional skills (self care, social, academic and play).

Case history is obtained from patient/parent and school and/or medical documentation is reviewed, as part of the evaluation process.

Evaluations are scheduled for approximately ninety minutes.

Q: How are services at Family Speech & Therapy Services different from services offered through the school district?

A: Speech-language therapy and occupational therapy at Family Speech & Therapy Services is provided in a one-on-one (one therapist to one child) setting. Parents are encouraged to observe therapy sessions and are given individual instruction on how to complete therapy activities at home. Many children participate in therapy at Family Speech & Therapy Services, in addition to receiving school-based therapy.

Family Speech & Therapy Services evaluates and treats many children who do not meet the strict criteria needed to qualify for school-based services. Many children who do not qualify for services in the school may benefit from speech-language therapy or occupational therapy services.

Q: Does my child need speech therapy?

A: If you have any concerns regarding your child's speech or language development it is best to schedule a comprehensive speech and language evaluation. This evaluation will compare your child's speech and language abilities to those of other children his/her age. Results of the evaluation will provide families with the information needed to make an informed decision about the need for services. We encourage you to call the clinic and speak with a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist concerning your child's specific needs.

Q: Does my child need occupational therapy?

A: If you have any concerns regarding your child's fine motor, visual motor, or sensory processing development, ability to complete self care tasks, school activities, or function well in social situations it is best to schedule a comprehensive occupational therapy evaluation. The evaluation will compare your child's sensory, motor, and functional abilities to those of other children his/her age. Results of the evaluation will provide families with the information needed to make an informed decision about the need for services. We encourage you to call the clinic and speak with a licensed Occupational Therapist concerning your child's specific needs.

Q: What if my insurance does not cover speech therapy or occupational therapy?

A: If you are not covered by health insurance or if your specific plan does not reimburse for speech-language services or occupational therapy, private pay options are available.

We have worked with many insurance plans and successfully appealed denials. We are willing to work with you to advocate for coverage of speech-language therapy and/or occupational therapy services.